UML Helps NEO Bring Opera to Lowell

LOWELL - Kay George Roberts, professor of music at the University of Massachusetts Lowell, will conduct the New England Orchestra (NEO) in its performance of the original opera Vanqui, as part of Living the Legend at the Smith Baker Center on Sunday, April 3 at 4 p.m.

Roberts, who founded the NEO and maintains her position as musical director, welcomes the opportunity to bring the New England premiere of Vanqui to Lowell. The opera tells the tale of a musical love story and tragic polemic on slavery set to the sounds of African rhythms and classical motifs blended by composer Leslie Savoy Burrs.

The performance will feature violinist Diane Monroe, electric bassist Gerald Veasley, South African musician Mogauwane Mahloele, baritone Brian Robinson and a chorus directed by Renese King. Admission is $10 for adults and $5 for seniors; students are free.

The University of Massachusetts Lowell, a comprehensive university with special expertise in applied science and technology, is committed to educating students for lifelong success and conducting research and outreach activities that sustain the economic, environmental, and social health of the region. UML offers its 11,000 undergraduate and graduate students more than 80 degree programs in the colleges of Arts and Sciences, Engineering and Management, and the School of Health and Environment and the Graduate School of Education. Visit the website at www.uml.edu.